Middle Ear Effusion/Infection

A middle ear effusion (fluid) occurs in the middle ear, between the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and inner ear. When the middle ear becomes acutely infected, pressure builds up behind the eardrum and causes severe pain. If left untreated, the eardrum may rupture allowing the pus from the middle ear space to drain into the outer ear (canal). This usually produces significant relief. Chronic middle ear effusions can also result in a conductive hearing loss and are often the reason for placement of tympanostomy tubes in children.